How Does a Dog Walk With Hip Dysplasia: A Complete Guide

If you’ve noticed your furry friend struggling to move around or walking with an unusual gait, they might be suffering from hip dysplasia. This common condition affects many dogs, particularly larger breeds, and can significantly impact their mobility and quality of life As a pet owner, understanding how dogs walk with hip dysplasia and how to help them is crucial for their well-being

Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t develop properly, causing them to fit together improperly. This misalignment leads to rubbing and grinding instead of smooth movement resulting in deterioration over time and eventual loss of function.

The condition often begins during a dog’s growth phase and worsens as they age While it’s more common in larger breeds like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlanders, Saint Bernards, and Rottweilers, it can affect dogs of any size or breed

How to Identify a Dog Walking With Hip Dysplasia

One of the first things you might notice is changes in your dog’s walking pattern. Here are the key characteristics of how a dog walks with hip dysplasia:

The “Bunny Hop” Gait

Dogs with hip dysplasia often develop what’s known as a “bunny hopping” or ataxic gait. This is especially noticeable when they’re running or going up stairs, where both back legs move together rather than independently.

Swaying Motion

When observed from behind, dogs with hip dysplasia often walk with a noticeable swaying motion in their hips. This happens because they’re trying to shift weight away from the painful hip joint.

Stance Changes

A healthy dog typically stands with their back legs in a mild V-shape. Dogs with hip dysplasia often stand with their back legs closer together or in an A-shape to reduce pressure on their painful hips.

Head and Neck Position

To offset weight from their painful hind end, dogs with hip dysplasia will often extend and lower their head and neck while walking.

Tail Movement

Their tail may rise when the affected leg touches the ground, and they might swing their tail more to one side than the other.

Back Leg Lameness

You might notice lameness in one or both back legs, which can come and go. In some cases, they may refuse to put any weight on the affected limb.

Abnormal Sitting and Lying Down

Dogs with hip dysplasia often shift their weight away from their hips when sitting or lying down. They might also struggle to stand up from a resting position.

Is Walking Good for Dogs With Hip Dysplasia?

Many pet parents wonder if they should still walk their dog who has hip dysplasia. The answer is yes, but with important modifications. Walking helps maintain muscle mass, improves joint mobility, reduces stiffness, and contributes to your dog’s mental well-being. However, the key is to walk them properly to avoid causing additional pain or damage.

5 Tips for Walking a Dog With Hip Dysplasia

1. Limit Exercise Time

For dogs with hip dysplasia, less is often more. Short, gentle walks are better than long, strenuous ones. Remember the “Short, Slow, Low” rule:

• Short: Keep walks brief, especially at first
• Slow: Maintain a relaxed pace
• Low: Keep the intensity low

For young large breed dogs prone to hip dysplasia, limiting exercise early can help prevent damage to their developing hips.

2. Opt for Slow and Gentle Walks

Avoid jogging or running with your dog, as these high-impact activities can strain the joints and muscles. Instead:

• Use a harness instead of a collar to distribute weight across your dog’s body
• Choose walking routes without obstacles like rocks or tree roots
• Allow your dog to set the pace
• Avoid pulling or jerking the leash

3. Try Alternatives to Walking and Running

When walking becomes too painful, consider these lower-impact exercise options:

• Swimming (excellent for maintaining muscle without joint stress)
• Puzzle games for mental stimulation
• Physical therapy exercises recommended by your vet
• Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill walks)

4. Consider Using Assistive Devices

Several products can help make walking more comfortable for dogs with hip dysplasia:

• Hip braces or supportive harnesses
• Dog slings that help you support your dog’s weight
• Ramps to help them navigate stairs or get into cars
• Orthopedic beds at home to help them rest comfortably

5. Add Joint Supplements to Their Diet

Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid can help support joint health and reduce inflammation. These supplements can be particularly beneficial for dogs with hip dysplasia as they help repair damaged cartilage and reduce pain.

When to Stop a Walk

Always monitor your dog during walks for signs of pain or discomfort, including:

• Limping or favoring one leg
• Whining or vocalizing
• Sitting down or refusing to continue
• Excessive panting
• Showing aggression when touched near the hip area

If you notice any of these signs, end the walk immediately and give your dog time to rest. Consult with your veterinarian if these symptoms persist or worsen.

Other Signs of Hip Dysplasia to Watch For

Beyond walking difficulties, other signs of hip dysplasia include:

Lack of Activity

Dogs with hip dysplasia often become less active over time. If your once energetic dog now spends most of their time lying around, it could be due to hip pain.

Unwillingness to Jump

Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia typically avoid jumping – whether onto furniture, into cars, or to catch toys. They may also struggle with stairs.

Narrow Standing Position

Some dogs stand with their back legs very close together to minimize hip pain, which unfortunately can worsen their condition over time.

Signs of Pain

Look for general signs of discomfort such as:

• Stiffness, especially after resting
• Difficulty standing up or lying down
• Decreased range of motion
• Muscle atrophy in the hind legs
• Irritability when touched near the hips
• Hiding or avoiding interaction

Working With Your Veterinarian

If you suspect your dog has hip dysplasia, consult with your veterinarian. They can confirm the diagnosis through physical examination and x-rays, and recommend treatment options which might include:

• Pain management medications
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical therapy
• Weight management
• Surgical options in severe cases

Your vet can also help design an appropriate exercise plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs and the severity of their condition.

While hip dysplasia can significantly affect how your dog walks and their overall mobility, with proper care and management, dogs with this condition can still lead happy, comfortable lives. By understanding how dogs walk with hip dysplasia and implementing the right strategies, you can help your furry friend stay active while minimizing pain and discomfort.

Remember that each dog’s experience with hip dysplasia is unique, so work closely with your veterinarian to develop a customized care plan. With the right approach to walking, exercise, pain management, and supportive care, you can help your dog maintain their mobility and enjoy their daily activities despite living with hip dysplasia.

A gait characterized by swaying hips and a “bunny-hop” motion, where the hindquarters move in unison, is a classic sign of hip dysplasia, particularly in dogs. This abnormal gait stems from instability and pain in the hip joints, leading to difficulty with normal walking, running, and jumping. In humans, hip dysplasia gait can manifest as a Trendelenburg gait, where the pelvis drops to the side during walking due to weak hip abductor muscles, or a reduced stride length.